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DWI/DUI Legal Defense in Harlandale, Texas
Expert Legal Representation from The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC
Facing a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charge in Harlandale, Texas, is a serious legal issue with potential long-term consequences. A conviction could impact your career, freedom, and reputation, making it essential to have an experienced legal team by your side. At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we specialize in defending individuals facing DWI and DUI charges in Harlandale. Our team is committed to providing aggressive defense strategies that are designed to protect your rights and minimize the consequences of these charges.
Understanding DWI/DUI Charges in Harlandale, Texas
In Harlandale, as throughout Texas, DWI and DUI charges are treated with the utmost seriousness. The consequences of a conviction can include hefty fines, loss of your driver’s license, and even jail time. Additionally, the long-term impact of a conviction, such as a criminal record, increased insurance rates, and difficulty finding employment, can affect your future. The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC will work tirelessly to guide you through the legal process and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Common DWI/DUI Charges and Potential Penalties in Harlandale
Standard DWI (Class B Misdemeanor)
A first-time DWI offense in Texas is typically classified as a Class B misdemeanor. A conviction may lead to a minimum of 72 hours in jail, fines, and a driver’s license suspension. We will fight to minimize these penalties and seek a favorable resolution for your case.
DWI with an Open Alcohol Container (Enhanced Class B Misdemeanor)
If an officer discovers an open container of alcohol in your vehicle during a DWI stop, it may result in an enhanced charge. While still a Class B misdemeanor, the presence of an open alcohol container can result in a mandatory minimum six-day jail sentence and additional penalties.
High BAC DWI (Class A Misdemeanor)
If your blood alcohol content (BAC) is above 0.15%, you may face a Class A misdemeanor charge, which carries more severe penalties. These include longer jail sentences, higher fines, and extended driver’s license suspensions.
Texas BAC Limits and Arrest Triggers
In Texas, the legal limit for BAC is 0.08% for drivers. However, even if your BAC is below this threshold, you could still face DWI charges if law enforcement believes that your ability to drive safely is impaired. Our attorneys will carefully examine all evidence, including BAC test results, to ensure they were legally obtained and properly administered.
Legal Defenses to DWI/DUI Charges in Harlandale
At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we offer multiple defense strategies to challenge DWI and DUI charges in Harlandale. Some of the most common defenses include:
- Lack of Probable Cause for the Traffic Stop
If the officer did not have a legitimate reason to pull you over, any evidence obtained during the stop could be inadmissible, potentially leading to the dismissal of the case. - Inaccurate BAC Testing
BAC tests, such as breathalyzer and blood tests, must be conducted in strict accordance with established procedures. If there are issues with how the tests were conducted or with the equipment used, we will challenge the reliability of the results. - Unreliable Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are subjective and can be influenced by external factors like fatigue, weather, or medical conditions. Our attorneys will scrutinize how these tests were conducted to determine their fairness and accuracy. - Medical Conditions Mimicking Intoxication
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or acid reflux, can cause symptoms that resemble intoxication. We may consult medical professionals to help build a defense based on these conditions. - First-Time Offender Programs
If you are a first-time offender, you may qualify for diversion programs like deferred adjudication, which could allow you to avoid a conviction altogether.
DWI vs. DUI: Key Differences in Harlandale, Texas
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence): This charge typically applies to individuals under the age of 21 who have any detectable amount of alcohol in their system, even if they are not impaired.
- DWI (Driving While Intoxicated): This charge applies to adults over the age of 21 who are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or any combination of substances, including prescription medications.
Understanding the distinction between DUI and DWI charges is critical in determining the best defense strategy and understanding the potential penalties associated with each.
Factors That May Increase the Severity of DWI/DUI Charges in Harlandale
Several factors can lead to more severe penalties for DWI and DUI offenses in Harlandale. These include:
- Repeat Offenses
If you have previous DWI or DUI convictions, new charges will result in more severe penalties, such as longer jail sentences, higher fines, and extended license suspensions. - Accidents Involving Injury or Death
If your DWI or DUI leads to an accident causing injury or death, you could face felony charges, which carry much more severe penalties, including long prison sentences. - Child Passengers Under 15 Years Old
If there is a child passenger under the age of 15 in your vehicle during the DWI or DUI, additional penalties apply, including mandatory jail time and higher fines. - Presence of an Open Alcohol Container
If an open alcohol container is found in your vehicle, the penalties for a DWI or DUI charge may be enhanced.
At The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, our experienced attorneys are committed to helping minimize the impact of these aggravating factors and working toward the best possible resolution for your case.
Why Choose The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC in Harlandale
- Comprehensive Knowledge of Texas DWI/DUI Laws
Our attorneys have in-depth knowledge of Texas DWI and DUI laws and a proven track record of defending clients in Harlandale and surrounding areas. - Aggressive Legal Representation
We are committed to vigorously defending your rights and fighting to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. - Tailored Defense Strategies
Every case is unique, and we will create a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation to maximize your chances of success. - Proven Success in DWI/DUI Cases
The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC has a history of successfully defending clients against DWI and DUI charges in Harlandale, achieving favorable results through expert legal representation.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
If you are facing DWI or DUI charges in Harlandale, it’s essential to seek experienced legal help as soon as possible. Early intervention can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
📞 Call The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC at to 430-202-6461 or contact us online schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.
Our team is ready to help you navigate the complexities of DWI and DUI charges in Harlandale, Texas. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you secure a brighter future.
